But Woodward, who as Lions coach in 2005 made O'Driscoll his skipper, said: "Warburton would be favourite for me.

"The Lions captain has to be an automatic choice - you can't have a captain who any players question should be in the team. I think Warburton is back to his best."

Challenging

The man who will have the decision this year is Warren Gatland, who has been seconded from his post as Wales boss to coach the Lions, and he will unveil his squad on 30 April.

"I think it's about picking players who are playing well at the moment. It's a difficult job and I think he (Gatland) is in a great position," Woodward added. "We all wish him well.

"I think the Lions have a great chance. I think Warren has the players and will be very confident after Saturday's round of Six Nations games. But it will be a hugely challenging tour.

"I was lucky enough to live in Australia for five years. People here think the Lions is huge because it's every four years. But in Australia it's every 12 years so if anything it is even bigger. Many Australian players never get the chance to play the Lions."